Small group tour to Plovdiv, Asen’s Fortress and Bachkovo Monastery

Exploring Bulgaria’s cultural and historical treasures is easy with this small group tour from Sofia that covers three major landmarks: Plovdiv, Asen’s Fortress, and Bachkovo Monastery. Priced at $88.87 per person, the tour lasts around 9 hours, making it an efficient option for those with limited time. With a maximum group size of 15 and options for hotel pickup and drop-off, it offers both convenience and a personalized touch. Its high rating of 5.0 based on 153 reviews highlights its consistent quality, with 97% recommending the experience.

This tour is especially suitable for those interested in Bulgarian history, architecture, and scenic views. It combines a comprehensive cultural itinerary with the ease of private transport, guided commentary, and a well-paced schedule. While the full day includes a lot of walking, the trip’s organization ensures timely visits and ample free time for exploration. It’s a great single-day option for visitors eager to see both ancient sites and natural beauty.

Key Points

• All-inclusive price of $88.87 covers transport, guide, and entrance fees for all stops.
• Starts at 8:30 am from InterContinental Sofia with hotel pickup included.
• Visit three major landmarks: Plovdiv Old Town, Asen’s Fortress, and Bachkovo Monastery.
• The 9-hour itinerary balances sightseeing, walking, and dining, with admission tickets included.
• The tour features professional guides with in-depth knowledge of Bulgaria’s history.
• Suitable for those with moderate physical fitness who enjoy cultural and scenic exploration.

From Sofia to Bulgaria’s Oldest City, Plovdiv

The tour begins with hotel pickup around 8:30 am from the InterContinental Sofia. After a roughly 1.5-hour drive, it arrives at Plovdiv, known as Europe’s oldest continuously inhabited city. The city’s strategic location has made it a hub for commerce and culture over millennia.

In Plovdiv, the guide leads visitors through Roman ruins, including the Roman Theatre and the Roman Stadium. The Old Town features narrow cobblestone streets and Revival Period house museums. Expect to see a blend of Roman, Ottoman, and modern architecture, reflecting Bulgaria’s layered past. Admission tickets to the key sites are included, and around three hours are spent exploring.

A traditional Bulgarian lunch follows, offering a chance to taste local cuisine before heading to the next stop.

Visiting Asen’s Fortress on the Edge of Rodopi Mountain

After lunch, the group drives for about 25 minutes to Asen’s Fortress, perched atop a cliff in Rodopi Mountain. This Medieval fortress is celebrated for its breathtaking views and rich history. The fortress’s strategic position in Bulgarian history makes it a particularly compelling stop, with its remnants telling stories of medieval power struggles.

Visitors get about 30 minutes to walk around the fortification walls and towers, taking in the panoramic scenery. The admission fee for Asen’s Fortress is included, making it easy to enjoy this historic site without extra costs.

The Serene Calm of Bachkovo Monastery

The final stop is the Bachkovo Monastery, located approximately 30 minutes away from the fortress. Established in the late 11th century by a Georgian founder, this second-largest monastery in Bulgaria offers a peaceful atmosphere and a glimpse into religious history. Its walls have endured through centuries of turbulence, making it a site imbued with history and resilience.

Visitors have about 30 minutes at the monastery, which is free to enter. The serenity and architecture of the monastery provide a perfect setting to reflect on the day’s discoveries and enjoy the natural surroundings.

Convenient Logistics and Small Group Comfort

This small group tour emphasizes personalized service with up to 7 participants at a time, ensuring a more intimate experience. The transport is by private vehicle, and the guides are described as knowledgeable and friendly, with many reviewers praising their historical insights.

The meeting point is centrally located, and the tour ends back at the same spot. The pick-up and drop-off service simplifies the logistics, ideal for visitors staying in Sofia.

Quality and Customer Satisfaction

The high rating of 5.0 from 153 reviews highlights the tour’s consistent quality. Positive comments frequently mention professional guides, particularly praising their depth of knowledge and storytelling skills. Reviewers note the well-organized itinerary and timely schedule as key strengths.

Several reviews highlight the value for money, with admission fees and transportation included, and praise the lively, friendly guides who make the experience both informative and enjoyable. The clean, new transport vehicles and COVID-19 safety measures—such as masks and disinfectant—add reassurance.

Practical Tips and Considerations

The tour involves a good amount of walking, especially in Plovdiv’s Old Town and at Asen’s Fortress. Travelers should have moderate physical fitness and wear comfortable shoes. It is advisable to choose cooler days to avoid the heat during walking portions.

While food and drinks are not included in the tour price, the traditional Bulgarian lunch provides a tasty break. There is ample free time for exploration at each stop, allowing for personalized sightseeing and photography.

Who Will Appreciate This Tour?

This comprehensive day trip appeals to history buffs, architecture enthusiasts, and anyone eager to see Bulgaria’s most iconic sights in a single day. The small group size and guides’ expertise make it ideal for travelers who appreciate personal attention and deep insights.

The balanced pace and well-chosen stops suit those comfortable with moderate walking. It offers good value, especially given the inclusive pricing and organized logistics.

The Sum Up: An Efficient, Well-Rated Bulgaria Day Trip

This small group tour from Sofia offers a convenient and informative way to discover Bulgaria’s historic and scenic highlights. The $88.87 price covers transport, guides, and entry fees, making it a cost-effective choice for a full day of sightseeing.

The tour’s strengths lie in its expert guides, timed schedule, and careful organization. It’s perfect for history lovers and those short on time who want a rundown of Bulgaria’s cultural gems. While it involves some walking, the small group setting ensures a personalized and relaxed experience.

Those seeking a well-structured, engaging day trip with beautiful views and rich history will find this tour a highly recommended option.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the tour price?
The price of $88.87 includes hotel pickup and drop-off, transport by private vehicle, professional guide, and all entrance fees for the stops.

How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts approximately 9 hours, starting at 8:30 am and ending back at the meeting point in Sofia.

Are meals included?
No, food and drinks are not included, but a Bulgarian lunch is provided at a local restaurant after visiting Plovdiv.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Children must be accompanied by an adult and should be comfortable with moderate walking.

What are the main stops?
The stops are Plovdiv Old Town, Asen’s Fortress, and Bachkovo Monastery, offering a mix of archaeological sites, medieval history, and religious architecture.

How do I meet the guide?
The meeting point is InterContinental Sofia near Old City Center, where the guide will pick up the group.

Can I customize the end location?
Yes, the guide can facilitate drop-off at different locations in Sofia, upon request.

What safety measures are in place?
Guides and drivers undergo medical checks, wear masks, and disinfect vehicles regularly, adhering to COVID-19 safety protocols.

Is this tour available in different languages?
The provided information suggests the guide can communicate effectively in English, and the tour is organized with small groups for better interaction.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the start, with a full refund.